The Start of Mosquito Season

As the chill of winter begins to fade, and spring rains settle in, many of us look forward to blossoming flowers, fresh mornings, and warmer evenings outdoors. But spring also marks the beginning of mosquito breeding season in many parts of Australia. When rain, warmth, and still water come together, conditions become nearly perfect for mosquitoes to multiply…ugh

Why Spring Rain Matters

1. Water fills habitats
   Mosquitoes require standing or still water to lay eggs. When rains come in spring, water collects in natural depressions, puddles, gutters, tarpaulins, wheelbarrows, plant pots, birdbaths—places you might not immediately notice. These become breeding grounds. (Pest Control Hub)

2. Warmer temperatures accelerate the life cycle
   Eggs laid in cooler months may lie dormant, or development is slow. As temperatures climb in spring, water warms, larval development speeds up, and the time from egg → larva → pupa → adult shortens significantly. (Brisbane City Council)

3. Humidity helps adult survival
   More moisture in the air helps mosquitoes survive once they emerge, and humid conditions help sustain larval habitats (less drying up). Rainfall followed by warm, humid weather is a strong trigger for mosquito population increases. (Fantastic Services)

Local Timing: When to Expect Mosquitoes

The exact timing of mosquito surge depends on region and weather patterns. A few examples:

• Adelaide / South Australia — Mosquito season generally begins as spring transitions into summer, often from late October through March. Peak activity tends to fall in the warmer months of summer. (MD Pest Control)

• Southern coastal and marshland areas — Species like Aedes camptorhynchus, the saltmarsh mosquito, tend to increase in numbers in late spring and early summer. (gnowangerup.wa.gov.au)

• After heavy rainfall, flooding or storms — Populations may surge quickly, as many larvae hatch just a few days after suitable water appears and conditions are warm. (Brisbane City Council)

Health Risks & Mosquito Species

Mosquitoes are more than just nuisance biters—they can carry diseases, some of which are significant in Australia:

• Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus are common in many areas. (Pest Control Hub)

• Some species (e.g. Culex annulirostris) are vectors for multiple arboviruses. (Wikipedia)

• Saltmarsh mosquitoes (e.g. Aedes camptorhynchus) also pose threats, especially to people living near coastal or brackish wetland areas. (gnowangerup.wa.gov.au)

What You Can Do: Prevention Tips

Since spring is when breeding picks up, being proactive can reduce bite-nuisances and health risks.

• Remove or regularly empty containers that collect water: pot plant saucers, tyres, buckets, birdbaths etc. (Pest Control Hub)

• Clear out gutters so water doesn’t pool. (Australian Medical Association)

• Seal or screen rainwater tanks properly. Even small gaps can let mosquitoes in. (Brisbane City Council)

• Use repellents, wear long sleeves & trousers in dawn/dusk periods when mosquitoes are most active. (Fantastic Services)

• Ensure doors/windows have flyscreens and are in good repair. (Pest Control Hub)

• Monitor local council or health department notices — sometimes they do larviciding in nearby wetlands or known breeding sites after heavy rain. (Brisbane City Council)

Spring’s Promise (and Challenge)

Spring brings renewal—flowers, warmer sun, longer days—but also the challenge of mosquitoes returning. If we pay attention early, take simple steps, we can enjoy the outdoors without being overrun. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about avoiding disease risks too.